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Cotinine in Saliva (24-hour collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine, in your saliva over a 24-hour period to assess recent nicotine exposure.

Quick summary

["Helps track nicotine use for smoking cessation support."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63044-2
Short code
Cotinine Sal Ql Scn
Synonyms
Cotinine Sal Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Cotinine is a chemical produced when your body breaks down nicotine from tobacco products. Unlike nicotine itself, cotinine stays in your system longer, making it a reliable marker for recent smoking or vaping exposure. This test helps healthcare providers monitor progress in quitting smoking by detecting nicotine use over time.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll collect saliva samples over a full 24-hour period, typically by spitting into a container at scheduled times. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

A specialized lab analyzes the collected saliva samples using a sensitive immunoassay method to measure cotinine levels. The test detects even small amounts of nicotine metabolites, helping identify patterns of exposure.

What the Results Mean

Higher cotinine levels suggest recent nicotine use, while lower levels may indicate reduced exposure or successful abstinence. Your results will be compared to clinical guidelines to guide your smoking cessation plan.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Saliva Cotinine

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test to monitor smoking or vaping habits, especially if you’re trying to quit. It provides objective evidence of nicotine exposure, helping track progress and adjust support strategies.
What do my results indicate about my health?
Cotinine levels don’t directly affect your health beyond confirming nicotine exposure. However, they help assess whether your efforts to quit are working and whether further support (like counseling or medications) is needed.
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically done once or twice during your smoking cessation journey. Follow your healthcare provider’s schedule, which may vary based on your progress and treatment plan.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy